Passage Planning Basics
Distance, time, and speed for planning a sailing passage.
Author: OceanCalc Editorial Team · Publisher: Albor Digital LLC
Passage planning starts with the route: waypoints, distance, and desired speed. Use distance in nautical miles and speed in knots so that time in hours = distance ÷ speed. Allow for current, leeway, and rest. Check weather and daylight; have alternatives. Our sailing time and great circle calculators help with the numbers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What average speed for passage planning?
Use your boat's typical speed under the conditions you expect—often 5–6 knots for a cruising sailboat under sail. Powerboats use cruising speed. Be conservative so you don't overestimate progress.